Most Goan towns have a Municipal Market where you can get practically everything you need in one place to stock up on your provisions. This is the traditional market place for the average Goan for his daily shopping needs.

These markets are usually the most interesting place to browse around for shopping. However over the years, some markets have gained fame around the world for their unique variety and ambience.

Friday Mapusa Market

The small town of Mapusa lies in northern Goa and is one of the main market centres in the state, serving both inland farmers and the villagers of the coast.

The market is at its bustling best every Friday morning when it draws large crowds of Goans as well tourists. Goans come from all over the state to do their weekly shopping here.

Although it's not much different from any other regional market, it's an excellent example of a typical busy Goan bazar. The market opens early morning around 8 am and the business is in full swing throughout the day until the closure at around 6 pm in the evening.

There are vendors selling everything from fresh fruit, vegetables to fish, earthen cooking pots to the latest plastic utensils.

Banastarim Bazar

Banastarim is a small village which lies in Ponda Taluka further along the road down the highway NH4A from the famous Old Goa Church complex. There is a weekly bazar held here on Fridays, which is quite similar to the Mapusa market.

The main difference between the two markets is that due to its location, this is not yet as popular with the tourists. As such the market still retains its old world charm and Goan ambience without the commercialisation aimed at tourists. Goods are thus available at extremely cheap prices.

Anjuna Market

Originally started by foreigners who wanted to sell off their second-hand items such as cameras, watches and even clothes, the Anjuna market today has quite a different appearance.

Held every Wednesday, near the famous Anjuna beach, it is a major attraction for people from Goa as well as the tourists.

Today it is more populated by stalls operated by Tibetan and Kashmiri traders and colourful Lamani tribal women rather than foreigners. The stalls usually sell handicrafts from around India.

Bargaining is expected by most vendors, so be sure to haggle around with the starting price until you are sure you are getting your money's worth.